Mountain getaways are a dime a dozen in Colorado where options for accommodation seem endless. But if you like to add a bit of fun and adventure to your travels, why not stay in some of Colorado’s most unique accommodations while you’re at it? With everything from tipis and working ranches to backcountry huts and converted fire lookout towers on offer, you can’t really go wrong. In case you need a little inspiration, here are some of our favorite accommodations in Colorado for those seeking something a bit unique and out of the ordinary.
1930s Restored Sheepherder’s Wagon
Where: Near Steamboat Springs, CO
When it comes to unique accommodations, this restored sheepherder’s wagon might just take the cake. Nestled in the beautiful Yampa Valley, you are surrounded by countryside yet still enjoy all the comforts of home. The wagon has been lovingly restored and offers a once-in-a-lifetime stay that you will likely not find anywhere else. Here, you will be treated with a full bathroom available in the main house, a comfortable bed in the wagon, and plenty of peace and quiet to welcome you to your home-away-from-home. Enjoy the outdoor fire pit, BBQ and patio areas under the stars, or duck inside to enjoy a movie if that’s more your speed. And for the especially lucky, you might be treated to some relaxing music around the roaring fire courtesy of the owners. Did we mention it will only set you back $99 per night? You’re welcome.
Dunton Hot Springs
Where: An hour southwest of Telluride, CO
If a luxury getaway is what you have in mind for your unique accommodations, look no further than Dunton Hot Springs. One of many hot springs to be found here in Colorado, but none can compare to those at Dunton Hot Springs. With several beautiful cabins, that can be rented individually, this experience is not one you will soon forget. The activities here feel endless, with summer adventures including trail rides, mountain biking, climbing, hiking, yoga, fly fishing, rafting, photography instruction and archeological day tours. With a full spa onsite and your own private hot spring pool, this place takes relaxing to a whole new level after your active adventures. One of our favorite things about this spot is the food. In tribute to the big cattle outlaws everyone eats together at an antique table in the saloon, and the food is out of this world. While not an inexpensive trip, this is a getaway you will always remember. Perhaps to celebrate that upcoming anniversary or birthday?
The Starlight Classic Campground
Where: Cañon City, CO
For those that love the idea of camping, but not the concept of sleeping on the hard ground all weekend, this one-of-a-kind spot is the perfect destination. Full of restored vintage camp trailers, you will feel one with the outdoors, without the aches and pains that usually come along with camping. And the best part is, you can just pack a bag for your getaway. No heavy camping equipment needed! If the Royal Gorge is calling, this park is centrally located to all of the fun activities this area is known for. And if you just want to stay and hang locally to make the most out of the park, the Starlite Campground has you covered. Offering plenty of fun for the whole family, enjoy mini golf, volleyball court, horseshoes, swimming pool, dog park, playground, and so much more. If the thought of a mountain getaway set you into a panic considering the possibility of no cell phone coverage, listen up. The park offers free wifi so you can post plenty of photos to your Instagram account without delay.
Polar Star Inn
Where: Near Edwards, CO
Getting back to nature should be a part of every great mountain adventure, and while sleeping under the stars sounds like a very romantic way to do that, we have a better idea. Enjoy all the fun of the backcountry and stay in the comforts of a beautiful mountain cabin. While there are plenty of choices throughout Colorado, the Polar Star Inn sits just under timberline on the west side of New York Mountain in central Colorado. It boasts six private rooms, running water, a fire pit, BBQ, and a large deck for watching the beautiful sunsets. There are plenty of hiking options around here and this offers a great space for larger groups looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. This is just one of many backcountry huts in the 10th Mountain Division.
John Denver’s Tipi
Where: Near Hesperus, CO
Imagine yourself surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, as close to nature as you can possibly get. After the sun goes down you find yourself stargazing while sitting around an open fire. Just when you think it couldn’t possibly get any better, you hear the faint sounds of John Denver singing “Rocky Mountain High” in the distance. While that last part may not actually come true, you can have the opportunity to stay in the same tipi that John Denver used on his 10-day Continental Divide journey. This rustic tipi is a great place to lay your head if you consider yourself to be the adventurous type. While there are no bathroom facilities to be found here, you will get the chance to enjoy plenty of unspoiled nature with a heavy dose of peace and quiet. For $35 a night, we think it is well worth it.
A Tiny Home
Where: Nederland, CO
It’s no surprise that the tiny home movement is sweeping the nation, with thousands of home buyers opting for tight quarters in the hopes of being able to fully live the life they want. But for those who haven’t made the switch, or those who never intend to, spending a weekend away in a tiny home is sure to offer a very unique experience. Without having to travel too far into the mountains, you can enjoy the more local scenery, hiking and mountain biking around Nederland. Enjoy a romantic stay for two with all the amenities of home, for only $100 per night. Don’t forget to pack light.
Glamping Tent
Where: Near Carbondale, CO
For those who are unfamiliar with the term “glamping,” allow me to explain. You love the outdoors, being close to nature, and the idea of camping. But the thought of sleeping on the hard ground, in a restricting sleeping bag isn’t quite what you had in mind. Enter the glamping tent. This glamping experience is in a large canvas tent with a California king size four poster bed for your comfort. Wake up to enviable views, surrounded by the peace and serenity of a working farm. This spot is especially appealing to creative types. The owners have turned several stalls of the restored barn into creative studio space for guests. The barn also offers a lounge area, wifi, laundry facilities, and phone access. But don’t worry, there are still plenty of opportunities for getting outdoors. With hiking trails passing right through the farm, these paths will lead you to BLM land for some really great Colorado hiking. For $135 per night you really are getting the five star treatment here.
Bud + Breakfast
Where: Four Locations – Denver, Silverthorne, Colorado Springs, & Grand County, CO
The Bud + Breakfast offers accommodation like no other. Only in Colorado will you find accommodations that are cannabis friendly. With four locations (one in the heart of Denver!), there is plenty of opportunity to combine some of your favorite things while on vacation. You know, if that’s your thing. Included in your stay are, right on theme, “wake and bake breakfast” and “420 happy hour,” as well as elegant ranch style dinners and, of course, late night desserts (varies by location). Depending on the location you will find a variety of typical Colorado activities to enjoy, they will just also include the use of whatever marijuana products you desire. And we wouldn’t be doing our job if we didn’t mention the food. The kitchen serves up plates of smoked salmon with truffled egg mousse, pickled shallot, with lemon creme fraiche on a bagel crisp. Our mouths are officially drooling. A very cool, laid back vibe is just what everyone craves on a getaway and Bud + Breakfast definitely delivers on all fronts.
Fire Lookout Tower
Where: At the Summit of Squaw Mountain
Not only do fire lookout towers serve a very important purpose in protecting our forests, they can also be converted into accommodation once they “retire” from the business. If you are quick enough to snag a reservation on one of the few towers in the country that offer the chance to stay the night in one, don’t pass it up. With expansive views that you will not find anywhere else, you will feel like you are floating above the forest. The Squaw Mountain Fire Lookout is one of our favorites. From here you have the unique ability to enjoy views of the plains, Denver, Pike’s Peak, Mount Evans, Longs Peak and plenty of other surrounding mountains and scenery, all while you enjoy your morning coffee. And since you really are in the heart of the action, you can also enjoy just about every activity to be found in Colorado: hiking, mountain biking, snowshoeing, backcountry skiing, wildlife viewing, and more. While this is a “pack it in, pack it out” facility you will find all the necessary comforts of home to make you nice and comfortable during your stay. All of this will run you only $80 per night, so if you can snag a reservation before they are gone we highly recommend it!